Brand Perception:
Reputation for build quality, durability, safety, and technological innovation.
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ, Volvo 740/760.
Engineering:
Robust construction, advanced suspension design, refined powertrain.
Design:
Timeless styling, aerodynamic efficiency, spacious and comfortable interior.
Safety:
Pioneering safety features for its era, including advanced crumple zones and ABS.
Engine:
Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, engine management (Bosch KE-Jetronic).
Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (722.4) and potentially 5-speed manual transmission (if applicable to 260E variant).
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, rear axle assembly.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link independent), shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, lines, calipers, master cylinder, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, interior trim, exterior trim.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures and fault code interpretation for KE-Jetronic and other systems.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, belt inspections/replacement.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine, transmission, suspension, brake, steering, and electrical component repairs.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including component specifications and tolerances.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms and fault diagnosis.
Replacements:
Component replacement procedures for all major systems.
Adjustments:
Settings and adjustments for engine timing, idle speed, and various system components.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced, including diagnostic flowcharts and component testing.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and accurate electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Schematics:
Hydraulic, pneumatic, and electronic schematics where applicable.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (722.4)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (G5/27-5)
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter, electronically controlled hydraulic pressure.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB-Approval 236.3 (e.g., Mobil ATF 220, Pentosin ATF 1)
Automatic Transmission Capacity Liters:
Approx. 7.0 (including torque converter)
Oil Change Interval Km:
10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months
Air Filter Interval Km:
20,000 - 30,000 km
Fuel Filter Interval Km:
20,000 - 40,000 km (depending on type)
Spark Plug Interval Km:
30,000 - 50,000 km (depending on type)
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B3, Viscosity 0W-40, 5W-40, 10W-40, 15W-40 (refer to manual for exact MB-Approval)
Coolant Specification:
MB-Approval 325.0 / 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of the main engine wiring harness insulation (shredded insulation) is a common issue.
Head Gasket:
Potential for head gasket leaks, especially in high-mileage vehicles.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on suspension bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings) leading to clunks or poor handling.
Climate Control Vacuum Lines:
Aging vacuum lines for the HVAC system can cause flap malfunctions.
Rust:
Susceptibility to rust in common areas like wheel arches, rocker panels, and door bottoms.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz's legacy of engineering excellence and luxury motoring.
W124 Introduction:
The W124 platform was introduced in 1984, representing a significant advancement in automotive engineering and design for Mercedes-Benz.
260E Positioning:
The 260E was positioned as an entry-level luxury sedan within the W124 range, offering a balance of performance and refinement.
Production Years:
1985-1992 (for W124 Sedan, specific 260E variant years apply).
Manufacturing Plants:
Primarily Sindelfingen, Germany, with potential assembly in other global locations.
